Date: 01 Jan 2006
Area where based: Lambeth
Outline of Project:
LATCH House is a partnership service of two distinct yet complementary services; one the Blenheim/CDP substance misuse service and the other NACRO hostel and housing service. LATCH stands for Lambeth Actively Tackling Crack and Housing as the project provides housing support and treatment to crack cocaine users after they leave prison.
Aims and Objectives:
In a coordinated response from both of the project partners, Blenheim CDP provides a psychosocial Structured Day Programme based mainly on a cognitive behavioural treatment (CBT) model and NACRO provide the 24 hour Resettlement Support package. The project’s unwritten motto is that ‘a bird cannot fly with one wing’ meaning both services provide crucial interventions and support for drug users who are committed to making positive and significant lifestyle changes.
The project accepts referrals from anyone with a Lambeth connection who’s primary drug is crack cocaine, has some involvement with the criminal justice system or is at risk of offending. Referrals must come from local agencies such as Probation, Prison CARAT Teams, the Substance Misuse Team, or Community and housing services.
Clients who are referred undergo a joint assessment with Blenheim/CDP focusing on drug dependency issues and NACRO on housing and resettlement support needs. After assessment clients are assigned two key workers (one from each partner agency) where they are offered support sessions to explore both drug related issues and resettlement needs. A holistic care plan is created to deal with issues such as legal, health, housing, employment and training.
The project offers accommodation with LATCH House providing 12 separate bedrooms, a kitchen, 2 WC’s, 2 shower rooms, a group room/lounge and a hall and front garden. The houses are fully furnished and contain: a cooker, washing machine, tumble dryer, central heating and smoke and fire alarms and extinguishers.
The initiative also offers a family support service for those affected by someone else’s crack cocaine use. This includes a free and confidential advice group work support for families.
Date Added: 09 Jun 2010
